Snowmobile traction band

Abstract

The invention relates to an improved traction band for use on a tracked vehicle and more particularly, on a snowmobile. The traction band is made of rubber and comprises a central portion and two opposite lateral portions. Each lateral portion is separated from the central portion by a row of holes defining clip areas. The central portion of the traction band further comprises a series of openings. These openings reduce the noise generated by the traction band when the vehicle is operated.

1 . A traction band for a tracked vehicle comprising an endless body having a ground engaging outer side and a suspension supporting inner side; 
 a. said body defining a central portion and opposite lateral portions;    b. each said lateral portion being interconnected with said central portion via a suspension bearing portion;    wherein said central portion and/or said lateral portions are provided with a plurality of openings.    
   
   
       2 . A traction band as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein said vehicle is a snowmobile.  
   
   
       3 . A traction band as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein said traction band is divided, along its longitudinal axis, into a plurality of pitch sections and wherein each said pitch section comprises at least one of said openings in said central portion.  
   
   
       4 . A traction band as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein said traction band is divided, along its longitudinal axis into a plurality of pitch sections and wherein each said pitch section comprises at least one of said openings in at least one of said lateral portions.  
   
   
       5 . A traction band for a tracked vehicle comprising an endless body having a ground engaging outer side and a suspension supporting inner side; 
 a. said body defining two side portions;    b. said side portions being interconnected via a suspension bearing portion;    wherein at least one of said side portions is provided with a plurality of openings.    
   
   
       6 . A traction band as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein said traction band is divided, along its longitudinal axis into a plurality of pitch sections and wherein each said pitch section comprises at least one of said openings in at least one of said side portions.  
   
   
       7 . A traction band as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein said vehicle is an ATV.